The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has issued a flash flood alert for 27 states across Nigeria, warning that the first 10 days of July 2026 will bring heightened flood risks as the country enters the peak of the rainy season. The advisory, posted on NiMet's official X account on Saturday, July 4, 2026, attributes the increased danger to widespread rainfall recorded throughout June, which has left soil in many areas waterlogged and unable to absorb additional precipitation.
According to NiMet: "As July marks the beginning of the peak rainy season, the risk of flash flooding is expected to increase, particularly in low-lying, urban, coastal, and poorly drained areas." The agency listed the states likely to be affected as Taraba, Sokoto, Borno, Zamfara, Kebbi, Katsina, Kaduna, Nasarawa, Plateau, Adamawa, Kwara, Kogi, Oyo, Ogun, Lagos, Osun, Ekiti, Delta, Edo, Abia, Imo, Anambra, Enugu, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Rivers, and Bayelsa. The alert covers the first dekad of July, from July 1 to July 10.
Potential Impacts on Transport, Farming, and Infrastructure
NiMet warned that heavy rainfall could trigger localised flash floods in urban centres, low-lying communities, and other flood-prone areas. The agency highlighted several potential disruptions: traffic congestion, blocked roads, and transport interruptions; temporary electricity and telecommunication outages; reduced visibility for motorists affecting aviation operations; waterlogged farmlands leading to possible crop damage; and damage to roads, bridges, drainage systems, and other critical infrastructure. NiMet added that stagnant floodwaters and poor sanitation could increase the risk of waterborne diseases.
NiMet Urges Residents and Agencies to Prepare
The agency advised Nigerians to monitor weather forecasts and flash flood alerts issued by NiMet throughout the period. Residents were encouraged to clear drains, gutters, and waterways to allow rainwater to flow freely, secure loose outdoor items, and reinforce vulnerable structures. NiMet also called on State Emergency Management Agencies (SEMAs), the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), community leaders, and other stakeholders to strengthen preparedness and emergency response measures. The agency stated: "Early preparedness and timely action remain essential in reducing the impacts of flash flooding. An informed community is a prepared community. Know the risks and Act Early."
Earlier Forecast for June 2026
Earlier, Legit.ng reported that NiMet forecast widespread rainfall and thunderstorms across Nigeria in June 2026. The agency projected above-normal rainfall for parts of the South West, Edo, Delta, Bayelsa, Benue, Sokoto, Kebbi, Borno, Nasarawa, Taraba, Plateau, Kaduna, and the Federal Capital Territory, while rainfall became established across several northern states. NiMet also warned of increased malaria and cholera risks during the rainy season.
